President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing him as “a supporter of the country’s unity” and a leader whose legacy will endure.
Buhari passed away on Sunday at a London clinic at the age of 82.
In a statement personally signed by him, Senator Akpabio extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Katsina State, as well as the immediate family of the late leader.
Akpabio reflected on Buhari’s enduring influence, noting his “unprecedented cult followership” driven by his firm stance against corruption, his defense of democratic values, and his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
“Having worked closely with former President Buhari as a minister under his administration, I can attest to the fact that he lived a Spartan life, thinking about the welfare of the people, especially the less privileged,” Akpabio said. “He was a leader worth emulating because he meant well for Nigeria and did his best to advance the cause of the people.”
He further described the late president as “a fine military officer that served Nigeria with zeal and patriotism and upon retirement transited to a democratic icon.”
Akpabio emphasized Buhari’s historic achievement as the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president in Nigeria, and praised his honesty, resilience, and devotion to the nation.
“His leadership and legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to our nation’s development and stability. His life signified honesty, truth and justice; he was indeed, the real ‘Mai Gaskiya’,” he concluded.
What you should know
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has paid tribute to late President Muhammadu Buhari, highlighting his integrity, humility, and historic political journey.
Akpabio, who once served under Buhari, described him as a model of discipline, democratic resilience, and national unity.
